Texas Class A Barber Written ExamChemical ServicesHard
A barber is tinting back a client's hair from a previously lightened level 8 (light blonde) to a natural level 5 (light brown). The barber is concerned about the new color appearing dull or greenish due to the missing underlying red/orange pigments in the lightened hair. What pre-treatment step is essential to prevent this undesirable result?
- AUsing a higher volume developer with the target color
- BApplying a deep conditioning treatment to close the cuticle
- CIncreasing the processing time of the final color application
- DApplying a red or orange filler (pre-pigmentation) before the target color
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Applying a red or orange filler (pre-pigmentation) before the target color
When tinting back (going darker) previously lightened hair, the underlying warm pigments (red and orange) that were removed during lightening must be replaced. Applying a red or orange filler (pre-pigmentation) before the target color ensures the new color has the necessary warmth, preventing dull or greenish tones.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A higher volume developer would cause lift, which is counterproductive when going darker, and would not address the missing underlying pigment.
- B. While deep conditioning is good for hair health, it does not replace missing pigment to prevent dull or greenish tones.
- C. Increasing processing time would not replace missing pigment and could lead to an overly dark or dull result without the correct underlying tones.
Tint Back Pre-Treatment (Pre-Pigmentation)
The process of reintroducing missing underlying warm pigments (red/orange) into previously lightened hair before applying a darker target color, to ensure an even, natural, and vibrant result.
- Used when going darker on lightened hair
- Replaces missing red/orange pigments
- Prevents dull, muddy, or greenish results
- Often involves a semi-permanent or demi-permanent red/orange shade
Memory trick: Tinting 'B'ack 'R'equires 'R'ed 'O'r 'O'range 'F'iller